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Multiple Choice
Through which process do some bacterial cells take up the recombinant plasmid DNA?
A
Transduction
B
Translation
C
Transcription
D
Transformation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of transformation: In the context of bacterial cells, transformation is the process by which bacteria take up foreign DNA from their surroundings. This is a natural process that can be harnessed in genetic engineering to introduce recombinant plasmid DNA into bacterial cells.
Differentiate between the processes: Transduction involves the transfer of DNA from one bacterium to another via a virus, translation is the process of synthesizing proteins from mRNA, and transcription is the synthesis of RNA from a DNA template. None of these processes involve the uptake of plasmid DNA by bacterial cells.
Recognize the role of plasmids: Plasmids are small, circular DNA molecules that are separate from the chromosomal DNA. They can replicate independently and are often used as vectors to introduce recombinant DNA into bacterial cells during transformation.
Identify the conditions for transformation: For transformation to occur, bacterial cells must be in a competent state, meaning they are able to take up DNA. Competence can be induced artificially in the lab using chemical treatments or electroporation.
Apply the concept to the problem: Given the options provided, transformation is the correct process through which bacterial cells take up recombinant plasmid DNA, as it directly involves the uptake of external DNA into the bacterial cell.